Spring is a good time for a soil test, but this vital tree and plant health care step can be done at any time of the year. Improving soil nutrition levels affects growth at all stages of tree and plant life, from new sprouts to old foliage. Consider how the following common soil issues could impact the health of your entire landscape, as well as how soil improvements and treatments can help.

Compaction

This problem occurs in almost any type of soil, but negative effects arise quicker in heavier soils. When soil pores decrease in size or quantity due to external pressure (such as from foot, vehicle or equipment traffic) the flow of water and nutrients also decreases and the overall health of your soil suffers. A soil test should help you gauge the level of compaction you’re dealing with and allow your local tree service company to offer specific treatment.

Over Mulching

Besides the immediate problems with applying too much mulch or applying the wrong type of mulch, over mulching may also alter the nutrient levels in your soil. As certain types of mulch decompose, especially those that may contain fresh grass clippings, soil nutrient levels may quickly change for the worse. This is where a soil test presents the only wise option, allowing you to detect invisible problems that you may end up perpetuating over and over with each mulch application.

Plain Old Time

The inevitable passage of time remains one of the quietest, sneakiest problems with soil nutrient levels and tree and plant health care. As season after season passes, de-icing chemicals, decomposing mulches and plenty of other things seep into the soil and alter the nutrients. Depletion also happens naturally with time, and in many cases only a treatment plan recommended by a tree service professional for your specific issues will turn things around.

In the hands of a skilled arborist or tree service company, each of these common problems can be reversed with the information gathered in a simple soil test. Find out how you can make your trees and plants much healthier by treating the soil nutrient levels specifically.

Winter brings severe conditions across the East Coast, and tackling an outdoor project such as hazardous tree removal can be daunting. But winter creates many of the conditions that demand this particular task, and finding an experienced tree service company to get the job done is the wisest course of action.

What Conditions Create the Need for Hazardous Tree Removal?

Extreme temperatures, cold winds and heavy snow affect more than our comfort and driving conditions — they may also do serious damage to the trees on and around your property. Watch for these signs of potential hazards:

● Heavy snow on branches of any size, especially when those branches overhang power lines or stand near utility poles
● Ice-covered branches of any size
● Weakened or diseased branches exposed to windy areas or other harsh weather conditions (such as ice, hail or heavy snow)
● Brittle or cracked branches that may further weaken or break from extreme cold (which may happen even without the weight of snow or ice)

What Can You Do to Reduce the Risk?

Keep a close watch on your trees during winter storms and throughout periods of extremely cold temperatures. Note any changes to the shape or condition of your trees, and call on the pros at the first sign of a problem.

Your tree service professional may want to inspect the tree before recommending a course of action, but timing is very important no matter what. The sooner you bring in the experts to tackle hazardous tree removal, the sooner your property becomes safe again.

Tree service companies have equipment to handle winter hazardous tree removal, and the training necessary to complete the job safely. Trust their recommendations and expertise if you spot a problem with your trees this winter.

Storm damage takes a serious toll on various aspects of your property, but broken tree limbs and beaten down shrubs do not mean that all is lost. Homeowners can do several things to bring beauty back to their property after a major storm, both on their own and with the help of professionals. Find out how to help your trees survive storm damage with a few easy steps. Learn more about our storm damage cleanup services.

Inspect and Assess Damage

The first stage involves a thorough inspection of the property. Jot down notes as you walk around and take pictures to record the damage and have a point of reference for recovery. Pay attention to how different parts of the storm affected your landscape features and trees — wind, rain, hail and snow do damage in particular ways.

Use this assessment to make a list of priorities. Consider safety and plan to tackle the projects that present the greatest danger first.

Prune Immediately

If possible, plan to prune branches within easy reach right away. This might not be safe when dealing with the aftereffects of winter storms. In that case your tree care professional may suggest waiting until the spring thaw to prune away broken, damaged branches and tree limbs.

Cutting in the proper location and manner makes all the difference to overall tree recovery. Loose bark, gaps and cracks from breakage all present an ideal haven for unwanted disease and pests long after the storm. Be sure to cut or prune branches close to the trunk, yet beyond the collar of the branch. When in doubt, call a tree care professional or an arborist to make the cuts for you. It’s worth the investment to be sure your tree will survive and flourish. Remember that larger branches require a saw for pruning, and that the improper use of chainsaws can do serious damage to tree bark.

Have a Closer Look at the Bark

Broken branches are obvious effects of a storm, but did you know that the torn or loose bark that results from heavy winds and breakage may do more damage to your trees? Insects and disease thrive in these areas, and uneven or torn bark captures debris and water which could damage the tree over time. Remove torn bark carefully using clean tools such as a pruning knife or chisel, always cutting or trimming at right angles to the tree’s surface. Avoid cutting firm bark, but anything loosened by bent or broken limbs can be carefully trimmed away after the storm.

Have a look around your property after a storm to assess storm damage. Prune away branches that can be safely accessed and plan to get tree bark back into shape in order to keep your trees and shrubs healthy post-storm. Your local tree care professional has the knowledge and tools to help you restore your beautiful property and protect the landscape for the next storm.

Whatever the size of your garden or landscape, its beauty relies on good plant health care to ensure lush turf, thriving trees and shrubs and healthy plants of every size, shape and color. Your local tree service experts, arborist and landscape professionals understand that optimal plant health care hinges on three key areas, including soil quality, pest control and disease control. How does each key play a role in the overall health of your landscape?

Soil Nutrition and Maintenance

The quality of your soil greatly influences the health of any plant – from trees to shrubs, grass, perennials and vegetable plantings. Trees and shrubs show the effects of poor soil quality less obviously than smaller plants, but maintaining good soil remains vital for tree health. Environmental stress (such as construction, flooding or any other event that affects the surrounding environment) changes soil nutrient levels, but even the most peaceful soil loses nutrients over time and from season to season. Your tree service expert offers soil testing to understand the specific additives and processes your soil requires.

Insect Control

Various insects can trigger a rapid decline in the health of your trees, shrubs and plants. Whether you’re dealing with caterpillars, carpenter ants, scale insects or common pests like ticks and mosquitos, insect control protects your plants and the people who enjoy them. Understand the thresholds for each insect and monitor your trees and shrubs regularly to ensure optimum health care in the face of harmful invaders.

Plant Disease Management

Disease takes a heavy toll on plants, especially when that disease is left untended. Rely on the knowledge of trained landscape professionals and tree service companies to detect signs of plant disease, design a safe, effective treatment system and keep watch on the progress of your plants. Each step takes careful attention and a systematic approach, as well as up-to-date knowledge on the best practices and products on the market.

Overall plant health care relies on these three keys. Your local tree services or landscape contractor understands the value of premium soil quality, insect control planning and plant disease management. Give each key the attention it deserves and your plants will thank you.

Tree Removal Service

Trees add incredible beauty to our properties, but only for a certain length of time. The lifetime or usefulness of a tree is limited and affected by several different factors. Find out why you may need to hire a tree removal expert to help improve or maintain your property.

Risk of Falling

This is a common issue after severe rain or winter storms, as well as in the wake of more serious storms. Weather damage weakens trees, creating a risk of falling branches or toppled trunks. Tree removal is required in these situations for safety. Experts advise property owners to inspect trees after severe storms, keeping a careful eye out for cracked and broken branches as well as trunk and root damage. Remember that heavy winds can topple a tree at the root base; make sure your trees remain stable to avoid this serious risk.

Damaged by Pests or Disease

Another common problem across the country, pests and disease take a toll on trees of any age. Research any infestations or spread of disease in your area and take regular walks around your trees to monitor the pest and disease situation. If the problem goes too far call a local tree removal professional to clear the damaged tree away and protect the balance of your property from similar issues.

Construction or Renovation Issues

Are you planning an addition or outdoor project such as a patio or fence? These major home renovations may require tree removal, especially if larger, older trees have grown beyond the original plans or you’ve moved into a home with previously established trees. Remember that hiring an experienced tree removal company may help with overall home renovation planning, keeping the project moving smoothly.

Landscaping or Atmosphere Change

Sometimes you simply want a change in your landscaping. Experts such as landscape designers or arborists can offer advice on effective tree removal , replacement or relocation. Talk to a pro before you solidify your plans to be sure your new landscape will suit your needs.

Whether damaged by weather or pests or simply in the way of your future plans, moving a tree requires the help of a tree removal expert.

Are you cutting down a tree on your property and wondering what to do with the stump? Understanding the pros and cons of stump grinding allows you to make a more informed decision about this common landscaping issue.

Pro – Quick and Efficient

It often takes only hours to cut down a tree, and this work is required when storm damage, disease or age hits your tree. Stump removal presents a variety of options ranging from stump grinding to chemical application or even using the old stump within your landscape design. Applying chemicals to an existing stump takes time and the correct process, often requiring attention and work by the homeowner over several weeks, months or even years. Stump grinding, when completed by an experienced professional tree services company is quick – often just a few hours – and efficient, leaving only a pile of useful wood chips or sawdust behind.

Con – An Investment is Required

Hiring a stump grinding contractor does cost more than many chemical products on the market due to the speed and efficiency offered. Consider this an investment in your overall landscape and remember that hiring a pro will result in the ideal landscape for your family’s enjoyment and safety.

Pro – Environmentally Wise

Stump grinding companies use state of the art equipment to tackle stumps of any size and reduce them to a pile of chips without disturbing the surrounding landscape. Leaving a stump to rot or applying chemicals to the area could result in the introduction of disease and other unwanted elements into your property. Why take the risk? Having a stump ground down to just 8 to 10 inches below the surface allows for sod to be laid over the area. Ask your contractor to grind deeper if you plan to replant over the old stump.

Con – A Potentially Messy Process

Hire a professional, local tree service company to complete your stump grinding service to limit any mess. Consider whether you can make use of the resulting wood chips as mulch or ask about complete removal. Remember to talk to your neighbors about this project beforehand and keep the path clear for stump grinding equipment to ensure your project goes smoothly.

Pro – A Clean Slate

Stump grinding provides the quickest path to a clean slate in your yard. Plan a new landscaping project around the area or simply look forward to more lush grass once the pros have cleaned everything up and you will not regret the time and money invested in professional stump grinding services in Massachusetts.

Shrubs provide beautiful borders and add a distinct element of style to any landscape. They also require maintenance and care, such as shrub trimming, to stay looking their best. Check out these three shrub trimming tips to understand how to keep your shrubs lush and attractive.

A Pruned Shrub is a Healthy Shrub

Just as with perennials, annuals, houseplants and trees of any size shrub pruning improves the shape and look of shrubs, but it also helps to maintain plant health. Removing dead or unnecessary parts of the shrub allows for maximum energy and peak plant development. Remember that proper shrub trimming involves pruning off for better health, improved landscape appearance or enhanced plant value, and it always creates a healthier shrub.

No Pruning is Better Than Poor Pruning

Nature prunes plants in many different ways, including weather and wildlife. Man has taken over pruning in our own landscape, but we need to remember that poor shrub care techniques will result in damaged or spent plants. It’s better to let nature take care of things than attempt shrub or tree trimming haphazardly. Experts state that improper trimming and pruning kills more shrubs and trees than pests. Tree care professional have the tools and knowledge to handle your landscape the right way, resulting in optimum beauty and value.

Plant Location Determines Shrub Trimming Requirements

Plant location and landscape needs determine how much or how little shrub trimming will be needed throughout the years. A live fence of shrubs requires consistent trimming, and results in an eye-catching outdoor feature. However a shrub placed in a different location with fertile soil, proper drainage and exposure might require only occasional trimming depending on your needs and expectations. Consult with your local arborist or tree service professional to discuss planting locations and shrub variety to achieve the look you want.

When done right, shrub trimming keeps your plants healthy and happy. Consider the location and expectations of your shrubs and plan to invest in their beauty for the long-term.

Mayer Tree Service, Inc. is a one source tree service and tree care service company that specializes in the removal of challenging and diseased trees. We service town all around the North Shore of Massachusetts and truly enjoy servicing our many customers in Beverly, Danvers and Topsfield

Some tree services companies continue to use chemical landscape treatments on lawns, gardens and trees. While these products may have their place when dealing with specific issues, organic plant health care allows for better overall treatment. In fact, properly brewed and applied compost tea counteracts the negative effects of these chemical treatments and allows for stronger trees and plant growth.

Support for the Little Guy

The maintenance of beneficial microorganisms is one of the main reasons that compost tea aids in the fight against harmful chemicals in your landscape. These tiny organisms exist in the soil. Compost tea reduces the negative effects of herbicide, fertilizer and pesticide use, allowing beneficial microorganisms to multiple and thrive.

Having additional beneficial microorganisms in your landscape presents other benefits as well. Higher levels of foliar uptake, and therefore greater nutrient absorption, are a direct result of an increased foliar uptake. These microorganisms help to combat future disease and often contribute to healthier soil.

What Does Compost Tea Do to Your Trees?

Applying compost tea to the trees and plants in your landscape provides many different benefits. While chemicals are applied to aid in growth and establishment, and herbicides are used to deter pests and disease, compost tea can do all of that and more.

Compost tea delivers the following:

•Compost teas and other organic plant health care products contain beneficial organisms that promote healthy growth. These organisms protect plants and trees from diseases that enter through the infected or injured sites.
•Compost tea allows the soil to retain more nutrients, thereby providing more food for the nearby trees and plants.
•Compost tea also alters the soil structure, reducing compaction and creating a much better environment for all plant life.

If your trees suffer from overuse of chemical landscape treatments, or you simply want to avoid any possibility of that scenario, ask your local tree services company about using compost tea and other organic plant heath care products. They deliver many benefits to your garden.

We have had a very cool spring this year, unlike last year where at this time nearly all trees had leafed out. This has caused many of our typical insect pests, especially wintermoth, to be slow in emerging this spring.

Wintermoth has hatched in many areas, but has not been very noticeable to this point, but I have seen the fine webs around twigs and buds of cherry and blueberry in the past week. Once we get a few warm days, we can expect to see more trees break bud, and begin to see more insect activity.

Deer ticks and dog ticks are now active, so be sure to check yourself, your kids, and your pets if you are outside this weekend. I had to pull a tick off my son last weekend after doing our spring cleanup on Saturday. Some areas have reported mosquito activity already also.

Did you know that we can manage ticks and mosquitos at your property? If you live in an area prone to ticks or mosquitos, or if you are planning a big outdoor event like a party or a wedding, we can come to your property and treat for these pests. This will reduce your chances of coming into contact with these insects that carry Lyme disease or EEE or West Nile Virus. Call Mayer Tree if you would like to learn more.

Hopefully by my next blog post, I can talk about all the wonderful flowering trees. Happy Spring!